A Nashville Predators prospect has come out as gay, a milestone moment for the sport of hockey as the first player signed to an NHL contract to make that declaration publicly. Luke Prokop said he was proud to say he is gay. “From a young age I have dreamed of being an NHL player, and I believe that living my authentic life will allow me to bring my whole self to the rink improve my chances for filling my dreams.”No active NHL player has come out as gay. Prokop said he hopes his example shows that gay people are welcome in the hockey community. Tennis legend Billie Jean King tweeted, “His bravery will help so many, as he seizes the power of living authentically.”———More AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/NHL and https://twitter.com/AP—Sports

Source: ABC News July 19, 2021 14:24 UTC